St. Louis Coalition for Sanctuary

The St. Louis Sanctuary Coalition is a multi-faith coalition of religious leaders, congregations, and individuals in and around St. Louis that are called by their shared values to respond actively and publicly to the suffering of our immigrant brothers and sisters residing in the US. The coalition seeks to end the suffering and injustice caused by immigration enforcement, including raids, detention, deportation and sometimes achieved through dangerous collaboration with local law enforcement. Together with those at risk of deportation, their families, and allies, the Coalition is prepared to provide sanctuary as a tool to achieve those goals.

What is Sanctuary?

Sanctuary is a way to be in solidarity with the undocumented community by creating safe space for the prophetic voice of immigrant leaders to be lifted up as we confront unjust laws together. Through the sanctuary movement, faith communities can powerfully enact and embody their commitment to justice. Those engaged in sanctuary participate in a spectrum of solidarity actions including welcoming undocumented people, advocating to help stop deportations, assisting with legal clinics, and physically sheltering immigrants in danger of immediate deportation. We believe that sanctuary is not only an important ministry, it is also a mindset that guides many ministries.

Alex garcia

Rene “Alex” Garcia Maldonado entered sanctuary in September 2017, fighting deportation so he can stay with his family in Missouri.

national report

It is always an honor to partner with IFCLA as they work tirelessly to promote Pope Francis’ vision of a ‘world of acceptance and solidarity, in which no one is seen as useless, out of place or disposable.’

— Marie Kenyon, Archdiocese of St. Louis

What is happening nationally in the Sanctuary scene? Click here to read the New Sanctuary Movement 2017 Report.